DACA opened in September 2008, specialising in entrepreneurship. Through innovative teaching and personalised learning, it aims to become the highest performing, most truly inclusive Academy in the country. The Academy is a place where everyone will realise their potential by developing an entrepreneurial approach, and is characterised by a positive attitude and a determination to succeed. DACA will develop students who are socially aware, well prepared for work and able to contribute positively to society.

With a fully inclusive admissions policy, DACA will provide a wider and more varied educational offer to its future projected population of 1,600 pupils aged 11-19. It will also include, for the first time in 20 years, the return of post-16 provision, where none exist at present - giving local young people the chance to carry on studying in their own town.

DACA is funded directly by the DCSF, with a £2m contribution from social entrepreneur Rod Aldridge, one of the UK’s most well-known philanthropists, through his foundation - The Aldridge Foundation.

The Currency of Entrepreneurship is the Academy’s own and exclusive currency of entrepreneurship and comprises the six DAKAs of; creativity, passion, risk taking, determination, problem solving and team work. Students are awarded DAKAs for using their entrepreneurial currency to improve themselves, their learning, Academy life or the community.

Every term students who have excelled in developing their entrepreneurial currency will be awarded a DAKA badge and the chance to become a DAKA Millionaire by collecting all six badges. The DAKA currency teaches students the additional vocational skills to help maximise opportunities and fulfill their potential.